As women, hair loss is something we don’t often like to think about, but I’m sure at some point you’ve asked yourself the following question; “Is all the hair that’s clogging my shower drain a sign that I need a cleaning lady or a sign that I’m losing my hair?”
As much as we don’t like to think about it, the truth is that hair loss in women is a reality – it doesn’t just affect men! A recent study reveals that nearly 30 million women in the US are losing their hair. But before you stress (which may be why you’re losing hair in the first place!) keep in mind that some hair loss is normal. However If you’re staring down at a handful of hair, don’t panic, there’s plenty of reasons you may be experiencing hair loss and the good news is, here at Transitions Hair we have a range of hair loss solutions available!
Genetics
Your family tree is the first place to look when you start noticing thinning hair. Genetic hair loss, or Androgenetic Alopecia, is the most common cause of a receding hairline. But before you go pointing a finger at your dad who’s been sporting a shiny bald spot since his 30s, the hair loss gene can be inherited from either one of your parents which means that if both your parents have a history of hair loss, you’re more likely to meet the same fate.
Stress
Remember those photos of Kristin Stewart’s hair loss following her very public break up with Robert Pattinson? Well long-term emotional and physiological stress can cause the body to release excessive amounts of androgen which may lead to androgenic alopecia (or female pattern baldness), which is a condition characterised by thinning hair all over the head, particularly at the top of the scalp. “It’s not uncommon for women to suffer hair loss after the stress of a relationship breakdown,” says Dr Farjo, medical director of the Institute of Trichologists.
Your styling routine
It’s tempting to rake through tangles and secure the tightest top knot known to man, but vigorous styling and hair treatments add up unfortunately the stress it puts on your hair and scalp can lead to hair loss, also known as traction alopecia. If you get a mild headache every time you pull your hair back into a ponytail, you need to ease up for your hair’s sake. This can be anything from “tugging” styles (think tight braids, hair weaves, and corn rows) to harsh chemical treatments such as perms. And although it might save you a bit of time, also consider using your heated styling tools on a lower setting!
Menopause
The onset of menopause causes a decrease in the production of oestrogen. This results in a shorter hair growth cycle, finer hair, and eventually hair loss in women (just in case all the other changes weren’t enough!) Variations in hormone levels may well be the culp0rit, however many of the other hair loss causes we’ve discussed (genetic predisposition, unusual levels of stress) also make a more prominent appearance and this time in a woman’s life.
Autoimmune diseases
Hair loss in women can also be triggered by autoimmune diseases, in which the body has an inappropriate immune response to things normally present in the body. Lupus, for example, affects about 1.5 million people, and tends to strike women during their childbearing years. The severity of hair loss can range anywhere from losing clumps while shampooing to bald patches and a rash on the scalp. We advise consulting your doctor to determine whether your hair loss is medically related.
What Hair Loss Solutions are Available?
Transitions Hair has a range of different hair loss solutions available depending on the extent of your hair loss. For mild thinning and small bald patches try BioTHIK Hair Fibres for instant cosmetic coverage. For more severe thinning and hair loss, check out our beautiful range of Topette Crown Extensions, adding hair where you need it most. Alternatively we also have a selection of gorgeous wigs for full head coverage.
Whatever your situation, Transitions Hair has the right solution for you! Click here to book a free consultation with one of our hair loss specialists or for more information give us a call on 1300 427 778.
